Hey Beautiful!
With the hotter weather upon us, many of you with natural and transitioning hair are on the hunt for styles that protect your tresses and extend the life of your look. Whether you prefer protective styles or want to switch it up with sleek, straight hair, we've got you covered.
Meet Your New BFF: The Design Essentials STS Express System
In this post, we’re diving into everything you need to know about the STS Express System: what it is, how it works, best practices, and most importantly, how to manage expectations after the treatment.
What is the STS Express Smoothing System?
The STS Express Smoothing System is a game-changing thermal therapy that uses heat-activated amino acids to temporarily stretch the disulfide bonds in your hair. This results in increased smoothness, shine, and manageability. Think of it as a gentle way to loosen your natural curl pattern, making your hair easier to detangle and style. Say goodbye to spending 45 minutes on wash and style days—you’ll shave off 20 minutes or more and be out the door in no time!
The three-step system includes:
STS Express Cleansing Sulfate-Free Shampoo
Smoothing Mousse
Thermal Therapy Leave-In Smoother
Plus, it comes with a Damage Recovery Anti-Breakage Treatment that can be used instead of the Smoothing Mousse if your hair needs some extra TLC.
Important Note: The STS Express Smoothing System is not a relaxer or a Brazilian Keratin Treatment.
How Does It Work?
The system uses heat to temporarily stretch the disulfide bonds in your hair, softening the curl pattern. Here’s how it breaks down:
Step 1: Cleanse your hair with the STS Express Cleansing Sulfate-Free Shampoo.
Step 2: Apply the Smoothing Mousse to the roots, and comb through
Step 3: Spray the Thermal Therapy Leave-In smooth throughout your hair and blow dry
Step 4: Using a temperature-controlled iron (340-400°F) flatiron each section, then style as desired.
For relaxed or damaged hair, swap the Smoothing Mousse for the Damage Recovery Anti-Breakage Treatment in Step 2.
For natural hair clients who prefer to keep their curls, simply re-wet and style your hair after Step 3 without flat ironing.
Who Should Use the STS Express Smoothing System?
This system is perfect for those with natural and transitioning hair looking for better manageability. It's not necessary for clients with relaxed hair since they've already undergone chemical processing. However, if a relaxed client wants to try the STS System between touch-ups, the Smoothing Mousse with the Damage Recovery Anti-Breakage can be added on as a conditioning treatment to strengthen and fortify the hair.
For clients transitioning from relaxers, the STS System makes the process smoother by blending the textures and protecting against breakage.
How Long Does It Last?
When applied by a professional, the STS Express Smoothing System delivers smooth, manageable hair for up to 12 weeks. Suitable for all hair types, including natural textures from 3c to 4c. Longevity will vary based on how well you care for your hair at home and during follow-up salon visits.
Managing Expectations
The STS Express Smoothing System is not permanent like a relaxer or Brazilian Keratin treatment. When moisture (rain, sweat, steam) is exposed, the hair will revert to a stretched-out curly state. However, the key benefit is long-term manageability—when hair reverts, curls will be looser, softer, and easier to manage. This system gently stretches and softens the natural curl pattern, making it less resistant to heat styling.
Aftercare Tips
For lasting results, advise your clients to use sulfate-free shampoos, such as the STS Express Cleansing Sulfate-Free Shampoo, Design Essentials Almond & Avocado Sulfate-Free Detangling Shampoo, or Coconut & Monoi Coconut Milk Nourishing Shampoo. Clients who shampoo frequently (once a week or more) will experience shorter-lasting results. Recommend they visit the salon every two weeks for maintenance services.
For natural hair clients, the texture-loosening effects last up to 12 weeks. Regular treatments are necessary to maintain a looser texture and improved manageability.
Stay fabulous and keep your hair looking its best, no matter the season!
P.S. Got questions or need personalized advice? Drop us a message or swing by our salon for a consultation. We're here to help!
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